with Ben Buchanan
Post Commitment Edition
The Class of 2008 is off to a stellar start with the first commitment now on board with the Buckeyes. A few days ago, one of the best kickers in the country, Ben Buchanan, pledged his desire to be a Buckeye. The BPRT gave you a glimpse of this fine young man in an earlier edition of the Straight Six. Now, Ben is back for a post-commitment update and another round of the Straight Six.
BPRT: You are the first member of what could be an incredible class for 2008. What sealed the deal for the Buckeyes?
BB: For as long as I can remember, I have been a Buckeye. Some people asked me why I committed so early to Ohio State? The answer is simple: I am and always will be an Ohio State Buckeye! It's in my blood. My father graduated from Ohio State and took me to my first Buckeye game in the 'Shoe when I was 4. The academics are great and our traditions are unrivaled. I heard that the Bucks were a family and I felt that when I first met the Coaches. Coach Peterson was great! To have the opportunity to learn from Coach Tressel sealed the deal for me. It's an honor for me to be an Ohio State Buckeye!
BPRT: What other schools had your interest before the Buckeyes offered?
BB: I'm a Big Ten fan first and foremost. Penn State, Illinois, Purdue, Indiana, Wisconsin, Northwestern and the Bucks were heavily recruiting me. Florida, Stanford, Arizona State, Kansas State, TCU, Cincinnati, Miami, Tennessee and Ohio from outside the Big Ten were also recruiting me. I am first and foremost loyal to the Bucks, which is why it was easy for me to be the first commit for the 2008 class. I wanted to get things rolling!
BPRT: Have you spoken with any other of the potential recruits such as Mike Adams, Devoe Torrence, Jake Stoneburner, or Michael Brewster?
BB: Honestly, with my academics, baseball and the recruiting process taking most of my time, I have not been able to speak with many prospects. Now that I am a Buckeye, I intend to do all that I can to help the best talent in the country suit up in the scarlet and gray!
BPRT: We know that you've worked extensively with Dan Stultz and also with Mike Nugent. What advice have they given you about the mental side of kicking and also about Ohio State Football?
BB: The 'pressure' of kicking and punting is easily the most important and the most difficult thing to master. Dan has helped me focus on technique and believing that I can make every field goal and extra point. Nuge taught me that every field goal is as an opportunity to show them how good you are, sort of a 'bring it on' attitude! Dan helped Nuge learn the ropes. I'm really looking forward to learning as much as I can from A.J. and Aaron. Without a doubt, my faith in Jesus Christ helps me keep pressure in perspective.
BPRT: Who are some of the players you would like to see join you in the class of 2008? Do you plan to help recruit them?
BB: I will do everything in my power to help Ohio State beat Michigan, win a Big Ten Title and a National Championship. It all starts with recruiting. I plan on attending Pro-Day after my baseball practice on March 10th to help recruit. Hopefully, I will see Mike Adams and Jake Stoneburner from Dublin Coffman there to encourage them to be Buckeyes.
BPRT: What changes do you expect in your life now that you are a future Buckeye?
BB: I am part of a much bigger family now! My parents taught me that every time I leave my home, I represent my family, my school, and my faith. My actions reflect upon them. Now that I'm a Buckeye, I need to uphold the high standards set by Coach Tressel, my teammates and all Buckeyes before me.
Ben Buchanan's BP Thread
The BPRT would like to thank Ben Buchanan for participating in the Straight Six. We look forward to seeing great things from you on and off the field. Welcome to the Buckeye Family Ben!
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